Cook's eyes swept past Cullen and landed on Sabrina with obvious delight. Her face lit up as she raised her hand in greeting. "There you are, Sa!"
"Hi, Cook." Sabrina bounded toward Cook with childlike enthusiasm. After receiving Cook's warm embrace and having her hair lovingly tousled, she approached Veronica with slightly less energy. "Hi, Mom."
Veronica responded with a noncommittal sound. As she pulled Sabrina into a brief hug, the subtle fragrance of Niall's expensive perfume clung to her daughter's clothing, hitting her senses like a reminder of everything wrong in her marriage.
She chose not to address it. Instead, she gently released Sabrina from the embrace, creating distance between them.
Cullen settled into the chair next to Cook and slid an elegantly wrapped box across the coffee table. "An apology gift."
The package contained premium Branch Willow, Cook's preferred blend. The beans were notoriously difficult to source, commanding astronomical prices when they occasionally appeared on the market.
Cook understood immediately that Cullen was making amends for his absence during their planned hot spring getaway.
She made a dismissive sound. "That's thoughtful for me, but what about Ver? Where's her apology?"
Cullen's response was silence paired with a fleeting glance in Veronica's direction.
The look lasted mere seconds and conveyed nothing beyond acknowledgment of her presence.
Cook had intended to advocate for Veronica, hoping to prompt Cullen into showing more consideration for his wife.
But Veronica had moved beyond needing such interventions.
She avoided looking at Cullen entirely. "Grandma, dinner will get cold if we wait much longer. Should we head to the table?" Her smile appeared genuine despite everything.
Cook interpreted Veronica's subject change as protection for Cullen.
Throughout their marriage, whenever Cook criticized Cullen for his treatment of Veronica, Veronica had consistently made excuses for his behavior.
Cook released a weary breath. "You always take his side." Veronica maintained her pleasant expression without responding.
Cullen's demeanor remained unchanged. Even Veronica's apparent defense of him failed to soften his impassive features.
The evening was progressing, and postponing dinner any longer would be impractical.
Cook rose from her seat and took Sabrina's small hand in both of hers. "It's been too long since we've shared a proper meal, Sa. Would you like to sit next to me tonight?"
Sabrina responded with an eager nod. "Yes, please."
"Such a sweet child." Cook directed a meaningful look at Cullen as she spoke, her intention unmistakable.
Veronica recognized Cook's renewed attempt at matchmaking between her and Cullen.
She didn't bother gauging Cullen's response. She simply accompanied Cook toward the dining room.
Taking her usual seat opposite Cook and Sabrina, she became aware of Cullen claiming the chair directly beside her.
Cook's satisfaction was evident in her pleased expression. Once the staff had arranged all the dishes on the table, she addressed Cullen. "Make sure Ver gets what she needs."
Veronica turned toward Cook. "That's not necessary, Grandma. I can manage…"
Her protest was interrupted when Cullen placed a serving of mashed potatoes within her reach.
Veronica hesitated momentarily. "Thank you." Cullen offered no verbal response.
Cook's instructions to Cullen regarding serving Veronica typically meant he should anticipate her needs throughout the meal.
Consequently, whenever Veronica reached toward a particular dish, Cullen would intercept and serve it to her first. His recall of her preferences and aversions appeared flawless.
Yet Veronica attached no significance to these gestures.
Similar scenes had played out countless times during their marriage. With Cullen's exceptional memory, such details would stick regardless of any emotional investment.
Following dinner, Cullen engaged Cook in conversation about family business matters.
Veronica remained nearby, listening without contributing. She made no attempt to initiate dialogue with Cullen and carefully avoided sustained eye contact.
Cook observed the obvious communication gap between Veronica and Cullen with growing concern. Despite years of marriage, they seemed like polite strangers sharing the same space.
By nine o'clock, fatigue began showing on Cook's face. She gestured dismissively toward the stairs. "I'm ready to turn in. You should all get some rest as well."